Clang! Clang! Clang! Bang!
In the secluded training arena nestled on the illustrious Rothschild Family Island, a mesmerizing symphony of metallic clashes resounded through the air, enveloping the senses in its captivating allure.
It was within this enchanting soundscape that a unique dance of blades unfolded, featuring only two skilled combatants.
One of these combatants stood out as a truly remarkable individual, wielding an intriguing combination of weapons.
A katana and a rapier, each adorned with distinctive markings that flaunted their esteemed status within the realm of sword hierarchy.
The intricate engravings etched upon these weapons bore witness to their origin as fabled relics, rumored to have been meticulously crafted by the hands of celestial beings—the legendary Celestial Edges.
The fact that this young man had not only obtained but also mastered the power of these twin swords spoke volumes about his unparalleled prowess as a master of the blade.
His command over the weapons was a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication.
In stark contrast to the masterful display put forth by his older brother, the 10-year-old Kenji served as a vivid example of youthful inexperience.
His attempts to wield a regular sword paled in comparison, revealing the stark disparity in skill between the two siblings.
Kenji's fumbling movements were a poignant reminder of his novice status, lacking the finesse and control that his elder sibling had meticulously honed over years of rigorous training.
The glimmer of unshed tears in his eyes further emphasized his tender age, as he teetered on the precipice of an emotional outburst.
"That's enough for today, little Kenny," Tsuyoshi said, his voice brimming with warmth and affection, as he extended a gentle hand to tousle his younger brother's blonde hair.
"I apologize for my weakness, big brother," Kenji murmured, his head lowered in a display of humility. His words were tinged with regret and a sense of inadequacy.
"I fear that I lack the strength necessary to uphold our clan's honor as a swordsman clan."
Suddenly a resounding laughter echoed from Tsuyoshi's mouth, "Hahaha"
Amidst the air filled with Tsuyoshi's resounding laughter, intertwined with a faint trace of sorrow, he gazed fondly at his adorable younger brother.
Though an atmosphere of joviality prevailed, an astute ear could discern a subtle undercurrent of melancholy within Tsuyoshi's laughter.
To Kenji, a misconception clouded his thoughts, believing that his brother's laughter was directed at his own perceived weakness.
However, within the intricate dynamics of their family and the hierarchy that governed their lineage, Kenji saw no fault in Tsuyoshi's actions.
He understood that given his brother's undeniable talent and their familial structure, Tsuyoshi had every right to behave as he did.
"It is not you, Kenji, who bears the burden of weakness," Tsuyoshi earnestly confessed, his voice filled with sincerity. He locked eyes with his younger brother, conveying a deep sense of responsibility.
"Instead, it is I, your elder brother, whose inadequacy has cast ink blots upon the pages of your story, hindering the path you were meant to follow."
"Huh? What do you mean, big brother?" an innocent and curious expression graced Kenji's face. While he was largely sheltered and naive, there was no doubt about his intelligence.
At that moment, he comprehended that his brother's previous outburst wasn't meant as mockery but rather as a genuine expression.
Tsuyoshi ventured into a new realm of conversation, far removed from their previous topic, as he posed a thought-provoking question to Kenji, "What is your dream, Kenny?"
Deep in contemplation, Kenji tapped his index finger against his chin, assuming a demeanor that portrayed maturity and intellectual reflection.
"Hmm, I don't believe I have a specific dream," he responded, his words laced with a sense of introspection.
"However, if I were to express a spontaneous desire, I would say that I aspire to become as cool and strong as you, big brother," Kenji continued, emphasizing his yearning for greatness.
His eyes gleamed with determination as he imagined himself in heroic scenarios.
"I want to have the power to swiftly vanquish our adversaries with a resounding 'bam' and a swift slice of my sword. Following those triumphant moments, I wish to deliver some memorable and awe-inspiring lines"
Kenji declared, his enthusiasm palpable. However, his ultimate aspiration lay in being his brother's steadfast sidekick, fighting alongside him against evil forces, once he awakened his latent magical abilities.
To illustrate his vision, he playfully demonstrated combat moves, punctuating his words with clenched fists, showcasing his intended prowess in battling the forces of darkness.
"Haha, that's sweet, little Kenny. But do you know what's even cooler than that?" Tsuyoshi inquired, amused by his younger brother's adorable antics.
Kenji shook his head, a slight perplexity on his face.
"No, I can't think of anything cooler than you, big brother," he responded sincerely.
Tsuyoshi smiled warmly, appreciating Kenji's admiration.
"Of course, there may be nothing cooler than your big brother," he acknowledged, his voice filled with affection.
"But there are things of greater significance, and that is your own story."
"Huh? What does that mean?" Kenji asked, his confusion deepening. His big brother's behavior seemed strange today, leaving him even more perplexed.
"Don't worry, you'll understand when you grow up. One last question: if you were to write a story and choose two characters from our family to be in it, who would they be?" Tsuyoshi asked Kenji.
"Obviously, it would be you and Celeste," Kenji replied matter-of-factly.
"Why not Dad or Lord Rothschild?" Tsuyoshi inquired a hint of amusement in his voice.
"Because I like the two of you the most in our family. Dad only thinks about the clan, and, well, Grandad—I mean Lord Rothschild—is even worse. Even though Celeste is stronger than me and sometimes bullies me, she's still my cute little sister."
"I see. So, would you like to write your own story then?" Tsuyoshi asked.
"Hmm, if you say it's the most important thing apart from being cool, then I guess I would like to write my own story. I trust you," Kenji replied, the admiration for his brother shining in his golden eyes.
"Where's a holopen and pad? I can start right now," Kenji exclaimed enthusiastically, ready to embark on his storytelling adventure.
"I didn't mean it quite like that, but you'll understand soon. It's already late, though. Go to bed. Tomorrow will be a long day," Tsuyoshi advised Kenji, ruffling his golden hair.
Observing that his brother had taken his words literally, Tsuyoshi facepalmed. It seemed that all his philosophical musings about life had been transformed by his younger brother into a whimsical fantasy novel.
"Alright, good night, big brother. Maybe I'll awaken my magic tonight, and we can embark on our journey as two heroes. Perhaps I can even include it in my new story," Kenji grinned, displaying his commitment to the task of writing his tale.
As Kenji walked away from Tsuyoshi, making his way toward the training grounds, Tsuyoshi halted him.
"Wait, Kenny. Here," Tsuyoshi said, tossing something in Kenji's direction. Catching it, Kenji inspected the object, a baffled expression on his face.
"What is this, big brother?" Kenji inquired.
"This is called a Classical Diary. It is a book that existed a millennium ago, before the technological revolution that mana had brought to Earth. I discovered it during my exploration of a ruin. You can use it to document your story. Now, off you go," Tsuyoshi said, shooing Kenji away to go to bed.
"It's the least I can do. I hope it aids you in shaping your destiny. I will give it to you as assistance on your journey," Tsuyoshi muttered to himself as he gazed at his right hand, which bore a tattoo depicting a lightning cloud encircling a golden sword.
"I hope you can fulfill the requirements of the Unique Pact. Now, let's begin. I wonder if your feelings of admiration will still endure for your big brother," Tsuyoshi sighed wearily, his gaze undergoing a profound transformation.
♤♤♤♤♤♤♤
In the depths of the night, a resounding cry reverberated through the grand halls of the Rothschild Family's main household.
Within the numerous rooms of the sprawling mansion, adjacent to Kenji's window, a figure covered in blood slipped through the open pane.
Despite the grave injuries sustained in his battle with Lord Rothschild, the intruder moved with exceptional skill, inscribing cryptic symbols in blood upon Kenji's right hand.
As the tattoo on his right hand glowed briefly, it disintegrated into particles that entered Kenji's body.
Unaware of these events unfolding around him, Kenji lay in a deep slumber, a thin trail of saliva glistening at the corner of his mouth, revealing the extent of his peaceful rest.
A faint smile crossed the intruder's face, his bloodstained teeth gleaming in the room's darkness. This was the sight he cherished, witnessing the innocence of his younger brother and anticipating the unfolding of his own story.
However, he knew that he had his path to follow—one that would inevitably lead to bloodshed and turmoil, a tale of a pacifist thrust into violence. If there were a god, only that deity could foresee the brutal story he was about to pen.
"Be good, Kenny. I hope our narratives never intersect. I wonder how that cold-hearted fellow will react to this..." Tsuyoshi chuckled softly, memories of his time at the Academy with Gene and Arthur flashing before his eyes.
But the laughter swiftly subsided as the weight of the realization set in. Years of pretending and concealing his true self had come to an end.
Concealing his katana in a secret location known only to Kenji, Tsuyoshi departed from the island, leaving behind all ties to the clan and even relinquishing the rapier as a means to settle his debts.
Because when they would meet again, he desired nothing to hold him back—no sentimental bonds or feelings of obligation.